Prince George, B.C.- Today is the International Day of Mourning.   Held in 100 countries around the world, it is a day to reflect on the deaths and injuries to workers on the job.

In B.C. last year, 121 workers died on the job. The numbers do not reflect the impact on family members who are left behind or on those who have to look after seriously injured workers.

“Families of killed and injured workers have worked hard to find a measure of justice by demanding the government  do more to make workers safe. These families have met with government Ministers and made public appeals to reach out to their communities for support” says B.C. Federation of Labour President Jim Sinclair. “We should all look to the example of these brave families and commit to take action that will help prevent workplace deaths and injuries.”

Sinclair says the Province needs to make a serious commitment to worker safety “Through training, safety inspections and by prosecuting employers who wilfully ignore worker safety.”